Improving School Outcomes for Transgender and Gender-Diverse Youth: A Rapid Review

Abstract

Transgender and gender-diverse students may experience poorer school outcomes due to a threatening school climate. A rapid review using systematic search found 2,111 studies mentioned LGBTQ + students, but only three were peer-reviewed empirical tests of potential interventions to improve school outcomes among transgender and gender-diverse youth: (a) Sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or gender expression (SOGIE) inclusive policies were associated with greater school safety, less victimization, less social aggression, and higher teacher support. (b) Among the interventions, the use of the chosen name in school reduced negative health outcomes. (c) Gay–Straight Alliances (GSA) reduced reports of frequent gender-based bullying. Several implementation facilitators for school interventions included transgender and gender-diverse students, along with informative families, trained teachers, and supportive principals. Randomized controlled trials focusing on this population would contribute greater certainty when developing school interventions. The lack of high-quality studies should serve as a wake-up call to conduct the necessary research.